Scotland must not allow terrorism to triumph

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Scotland must not allow terrorism to triumph. Pic: Lisa Ferguson.

Published:09:31Wednesday 24 May 2017

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The people of Scotland must not allow terrorism to triumph and should go about their business as usual, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.

Following confirmation that the UK’s terror threat level has been raised to ‘critical’, the FM chaired a further Resilience Committee meeting in the early hours of this morning which was attended by the Deputy First Minister, the Justice Secretary, the Lord Advocate and senior officers from Police Scotland.

At the meeting, ministers were briefed by Police Scotland about the practical implications for Scotland of the heightened security status.

At the meeting, minsters were updated on the latest situation in Scotland: Six people have been treated at hospitals in Scotland; four have been discharged and two are still being treated in hospital. None of the their injuries are life threatening and NHS Scotland will work with other agencies to support those who have been affected by this incident.

Police Scotland are continuing to provide support to the families of two girls from Barra, Laura MacIntyre and Eilidh MacLeod, who were caught up in the attack.

Police Scotland have also stepped up security in locations such as transport hubs and city centres as a precaution and are reviewing arrangements for upcoming public events. There is no intelligence of an increased risk to Scotland.

Young Scot have produced online guidance and Education Scotland and local authorities are in contact with head teachers to provide information and support to young people and their families who may have been affected by the attack

The First Minister said: “While raising the UK terror threat level to ‘critical’ has been judged a necessary response to the despicable attack in Manchester, we must not allow terrorism to triumph.

“I urge the people of Scotland to be vigilant but not alarmed and, as far as possible, to go about their business as usual.

“Police Scotland have already visibly increased their presence in locations such as transport hubs and city centres as a precaution. Security arrangements for upcoming public events, including this weekend’s Scottish Cup Final, are being thoroughly reviewed and the public should anticipate additional safety measures such as full body and bag searches.

“Our emergency services prepare extensively for situations such as this, and those well-rehearsed plans are now being put into practice.”

The First Minister continued: “Anyone who was in Manchester and witnessed the terror attack or its immediate aftermath will undoubtedly be feeling stressed or upset. Anyone with concerns about themselves or their children should contact their GP for support or NHS 24 if their GP surgery is closed.”

She added: “Scotland stands together, in solidarity, with the people of Manchester - we will not be divided by those who seek to destroy our way of life.”